Look at the Hurricanes squad that won the cup. Montreal isn't close to that level.

Yes they are. They had 3 lines that could score (just like the Habs), they did have Eric Staal and Rod Brind'Amour, who were better than anyone on the Habs, but overall their offense was better but not much better.

Their defensemen were actually weaker. They had a very average, if not lower than average, defense. And their goalie was hot at the time, which Price is also capable of.